Kombucha is a fermented beverage made from sweetened black or green tea. The fermentation process creates bacteria and yeast that — while that may sound unappealing — is believed to improve digestion and gut health. Kombucha has been around for centuries but has recently gained popularity across the globe thanks to its health benefits.
How Is Kombucha Made?
The first step in the kombucha-making process is making sweet tea, either black or green tea. Then, a colony of bacteria and yeast (known as a "SCOBY") is added to the tea. The SCOBY consumes the sugar in the tea, resulting in a slightly tart and sweet beverage. Some kombucha products also have fruit juice or other flavors added during production to improve the taste. Kombucha is left to ferment for anywhere from one week to one month.
Benefits Of Drinking Kombucha
Kombucha has a reputation for being a restorative drink with loads of benefits, including the ability to detoxify the body and prevent diseases like cancer and diabetes. So far, these claims have not been proven in controlled studies of humans, but kombucha does have qualities that may make it beneficial for your health.
Kombucha is rich in probiotics, which are live bacteria that are good for gut health. Probiotics have been shown to improve digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome. They may also boost immunity and protect against some infectious diseases.
When made with green tea, kombucha can also be an extra source of antioxidants. These nutrients scavenge harmful toxins known as free radicals, which can damage cells and lead to inflammation. Free radicals have been linked to various chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's.
In addition, kombucha can contain small amounts of vitamins such as B1, B6, and B12. These vitamins are associated with energy production. Vitamin B12 can be beneficial for people who don't eat meat or poultry, as it is found in animal products. 
How To Drink Kombucha
There are a few different ways to drink kombucha. It can be enjoyed on its own or used as a cocktail mixer. It can also be used in place of vinegar in salad dressings and other recipes. When choosing a kombucha, look for one that contains live cultures. You may want to stay away from kombuchas that have been pasteurized, as this will kill the beneficial bacteria.
Risks Of Drinking Kombucha
While kombucha is generally safe for most people, there are a few potential risks to be aware of.
Because kombucha is made with bacteria, if it's made improperly, it can result in harmful bacteria or even mold. In some cases, it can cause infections in people with weak immune systems. Kombucha is also quite acidic, with a pH level of around 2.5 to 3.5. This acidity can damage tooth enamel, so it can be helpful to drink kombucha through a straw and rinse your mouth with water after drinking it. This can help reduce the damage to your teeth when drinking kombucha.
It's not recommended that anyone pregnant or breastfeeding drink kombucha. Because this beverage is fermented, it contains small amounts of alcohol. While the alcohol content is low and may not pose an immediate risk, the drink has additional risk factors that are best for those pregnant or breastfeeding to avoid.
What Does Kombucha Taste Like?
Kombucha has a slightly tart, slightly sweet flavor. It is often described as vinegary or funky. The longer kombucha ferments, the more tart it will taste. Kombuchas that has been flavored with fruit juices, herbs, or spices will have a more subtle taste.
Does Kombucha Have Caffeine?
Kombucha does contain caffeine. However, the level of caffeine differs depending on the tea used and the fermentation process. Usually, the amount of caffeine in kombucha is small because the SCOBY consumes most of the caffeine during fermentation. Typically, a 12-ounce (355-ml) serving of kombucha typically contains about 14 mg of caffeine, compared to about 95 mg in the same serving of black tea.
Can I Offer Kombucha In My Establishment?
Foodservice establishments are allowed to offer kombucha. Simply store and serve your kombucha in glass kombucha bottles. However, most states require a license due to the alcohol and unique process of producing this fermented beverage. If you're looking to sell kombucha at your establishment, it's crucial to be aware of any permits or licenses you may need, depending on the area you're located in. 
It's Time To Add Kombucha To Your Menu!
Kombucha is a fermented drink made from sweetened tea and a SCOBY. It has many potential health benefits, including detoxifying the body, improving gut health, and boosting immunity. Because there are some potential health risks, looking for the kombucha that works for you and your customers is essential. When adding kombucha to your menu, just remember to take the proper precautions and follow your state's guidelines to ensure your processes are safe and eliminate the possibility of foodborne illnesses. Having kombucha at your establishment can be a unique offering that guests will appreciate and set you apart from competitors!
